French footballers strike deal to reduce wages

Published : Thursday, 9 April, 2020 at 12:00 AM Count : 152

PARIS, APRIL 8: Footballers and clubs in France's top two leagues have reached a non-binding agreement over a "temporary" pay cut during the coronavirus crisis, the national players' union (UNFP) said Tuesday."We approved the recommendation this morning," UNFP president Philippe Piat told AFP. "The idea is that players defer a part of their April wages to allow clubs to cope," during what he called a "dramatic health situation". Club and player representatives agreed upon a joint "recommendation" that would see footballers accept a temporarily reduced wage, which they will receive once money from TV rights is paid. Broadcasters Canal+ and beIN Sports have for the time being suspended the payments, the clubs' main source of revenue, after the season was put on hold last month indefinitely.The pay cuts will be calculated on a sliding scale starting at 20 percent, with the highest earners -- those who pocket over 100,000 euros monthly -- facing a 50 percent reduction.

Players making less than 10,000 euros will not be affected.Under French labour law the arrangement cannot be legally enforced, although the UNFP president expects "a large majority will not go against" the agreement. -AFP